Australians would get fewer and worse quality models of television if a government proposal to promote local broadcasters’ apps like 7plus, 9Now and ABC iview on internet-connected TVs goes ahead, manufacturers have warned.

Australians buy between 1.5 million and 1.8 million TVs every year, according to the Consumer Electronics Suppliers Association (CESA), which represents brands like Samsung, Sony, LG and Panasonic.